Long-Term Capital Gain Tax on Shares: Calculations & Exemptions

Long-Term Capital Gain Tax on Shares: Calculations & Exemptions

May 10, 2023

5 Minutes

Decoding Long-Term Capital Gain Tax on Shares in India: Your Comprehensive Guide

Long-term capital gain tax on shares is a crucial facet of India's taxation framework, impacting individuals' financial planning. Let's delve into the intricacies of this taxation, focusing on profits arising from the sale or transfer of capital assets, be they movable or immovable.

Distinguishing Capital Assets: Long-Term vs Short-Term

Capital assets fall into two categories based on the holding period: long-term (held for over 12 months) and short-term (held for less than 12 months). Understanding this classification sets the foundation for comprehending the tax implications.

Evolution of Tax Provisions: A Brief Overview

The taxation landscape underwent a significant transformation in 2018. Previously governed by Section 10(38) of the Income Tax Act, 1961, the tax rate for long-term capital gains on shares was redefined by the introduction of Section 112A in Budget 2018.

Under the prevailing provisions, long-term capital gains on shares and equity-oriented mutual funds incur a 10% tax if they exceed Rs. 1 lakh in a fiscal year. This rate is applicable alongside surcharge and cess.

Other securities also fall under taxation scrutiny. Listed shares and mutual funds with paid Securities Transaction Tax (STT) attract a 10% tax on gains surpassing Rs. 1 lakh. Similarly, the sale of debt-oriented mutual funds is taxed at either 10% or 20%, contingent on availing the indexation benefit.

Capitalizing on Exemptions: Section 54F

Section 54F offers a ray of tax relief. Individuals can secure exemptions on long-term capital gains on shares by reinvesting the net consideration from the sale in up to two real estate properties within specified timelines.

Grandfathering Individuals: Navigating Changes

Budget 2018 brought about substantial changes, but certain individuals were "grandfathered," exempted from adhering to the new provisions. The taxable capital gains for these individuals factor in the cost of acquisition and tax exemptions up to Rs. 1 lakh.

Streamlined Tax Filing Post Finance Bill 2018

Post-Finance Bill 2018, the tax filing process has been streamlined. Individuals file income tax returns with a consolidated amount from capital gains. However, gains and losses from distinct equity shares and units of equity-oriented funds necessitate separate calculations.

In essence, comprehending long-term capital gain tax on shares in India is pivotal for financial literacy. Staying abreast of applicable tax rates and provisions ensures compliance with the law. Empower yourself with this knowledge to make informed financial decisions.

Decoding Long-Term Capital Gain Tax on Shares in India: Your Comprehensive Guide

Long-term capital gain tax on shares is a crucial facet of India's taxation framework, impacting individuals' financial planning. Let's delve into the intricacies of this taxation, focusing on profits arising from the sale or transfer of capital assets, be they movable or immovable.

Distinguishing Capital Assets: Long-Term vs Short-Term

Capital assets fall into two categories based on the holding period: long-term (held for over 12 months) and short-term (held for less than 12 months). Understanding this classification sets the foundation for comprehending the tax implications.

Evolution of Tax Provisions: A Brief Overview

The taxation landscape underwent a significant transformation in 2018. Previously governed by Section 10(38) of the Income Tax Act, 1961, the tax rate for long-term capital gains on shares was redefined by the introduction of Section 112A in Budget 2018.

Under the prevailing provisions, long-term capital gains on shares and equity-oriented mutual funds incur a 10% tax if they exceed Rs. 1 lakh in a fiscal year. This rate is applicable alongside surcharge and cess.

Other securities also fall under taxation scrutiny. Listed shares and mutual funds with paid Securities Transaction Tax (STT) attract a 10% tax on gains surpassing Rs. 1 lakh. Similarly, the sale of debt-oriented mutual funds is taxed at either 10% or 20%, contingent on availing the indexation benefit.

Capitalizing on Exemptions: Section 54F

Section 54F offers a ray of tax relief. Individuals can secure exemptions on long-term capital gains on shares by reinvesting the net consideration from the sale in up to two real estate properties within specified timelines.

Grandfathering Individuals: Navigating Changes

Budget 2018 brought about substantial changes, but certain individuals were "grandfathered," exempted from adhering to the new provisions. The taxable capital gains for these individuals factor in the cost of acquisition and tax exemptions up to Rs. 1 lakh.

Streamlined Tax Filing Post Finance Bill 2018

Post-Finance Bill 2018, the tax filing process has been streamlined. Individuals file income tax returns with a consolidated amount from capital gains. However, gains and losses from distinct equity shares and units of equity-oriented funds necessitate separate calculations.

In essence, comprehending long-term capital gain tax on shares in India is pivotal for financial literacy. Staying abreast of applicable tax rates and provisions ensures compliance with the law. Empower yourself with this knowledge to make informed financial decisions.

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